President William Ruto has urged young Kenyans to register as voters in large numbers ahead of the 2027 General Election, saying their participation will determine the nation’s future.
Speaking during a Sunday service at St. Mary’s AIPCA Church in Kathelwa, Meru County, the President challenged the youth to elect leaders based on vision and performance, not rhetoric.
Ruto cautioned politicians against premature campaigns, insisting that the focus should remain on service delivery.
“Elections will be held in 2027, and like before, they will take place in one day—not two or more,” he said.
“Right now, what we need is work. Leaders must stop politicking from Monday to Sunday, January to December. That is what has made this country lag behind.”
The Head of State was accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma, Senator Kathuri Murungi, and several Cabinet and Principal Secretaries, including Eric Muga (Water), Patrick Kilemi (Cooperatives), Gitonga Mugambi (Forestry), Bety Njagi (Blue Economy), Alex Wachira, and Mary Muthoni (Public Health).
Ruto accused some leaders of neglecting their duties to pursue early political campaigns.
“If someone has no agenda, no plan, no vision or strategy for the country, they should not be elected,” he said.
“Those already campaigning are not talking about roads, hospitals, electricity, or schools—they are only engaging in empty rhetoric.”
Highlighting his administration’s progress, the President pointed to gains in agriculture, especially in maize, tea, and coffee production, as well as investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and housing under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
“What we have done is good, but it is not enough. We must up our game,” Ruto said.
“Kenya should not still be classified as a Third World country. Our people work hard, and they deserve better.”
He decried Kenya’s heavy reliance on food imports despite its fertile land, urging unity and accountability among leaders.
“Change will not come from talk, but from tangible development and responsible leadership,” he said.
Deputy President Kindiki echoed the call for unity, urging Kenyans to reject divisive politics.
“The people of Meru are supporting you, Mr. President. Forget the naysayers who thrive on fear,” he said.